Question

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, over 20% of Americans are diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression (2018). As we learn about the nervous system this module, we can use these two common disorders to help gain an understanding of basic nerve function.

For your discussion post, choose either depression or anxiety and answer the following questions. Remember to use your own words when explaining these concepts.

How does depression/anxiety affect neurotransmitters?

How does depression/anxiety affect synapses?

How does depression/anxiety affect neuron function?

In your reply posts, share how various treatments may improve the physiology of the disorders discussed. Since these are common disorders, you may choose to share personal experiences. If so, keep the information you share confidential and do not share names or identifying information of others.

Answer 1

neurotransmitters are the chemicals which relay messages from neuron to neuron. depression has been linked to imbalance of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.

as the level of neurotransmitters is low at synapeses so the pattern of 'up regulation 'occurs. it is a componsatory mechasium to pick up whatever signals are available which lead to synaptic fatique.

serotonin is involved in controlling many important body functions and it is produced by serotonergic neurons. and in depression these neurons produce less serotonin. that is in depression leads to less function of neurons.

the treatment of all these physiological disorders is anti depressant drugs.